A restaurant-quality dish that combines tender, Cajun-seasoned steak with creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce over pasta, perfect for a special dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy – The Alfredo sauce is velvety and packed with Parmesan flavor.
Perfectly seasoned steak – Cajun seasoning gives the steak a bold, smoky kick.
One-pan sauce – The Alfredo sauce is made in the same skillet as the steak for extra flavor.
Versatile – Works with fettuccine, penne, or your favorite pasta.
Quick and easy – Ready in just 35 minutes!

Ingredients

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp smoked paprika
12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Steak:

Season the steak with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
Remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.

2. Cook the Pasta:

While the steak rests, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:

In the same skillet used for the steak, reduce heat to medium and add unsalted butter.
Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.

5. Serve:

Plate the pasta and top with sliced steak.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 820 kcal per serving

Variations

Spicy version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning for more heat.
Lighter option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Garlic butter steak: Add an extra tablespoon of butter when cooking the steak for a richer flavor.
Extra cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or cheddar cheese for a cheesier Alfredo sauce.
Vegetable twist: Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for a nutritious boost.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the sauce may separate.
Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! Any pasta like linguine, spaghetti, or bowtie works well.

What’s the best steak for this recipe?

Sirloin or ribeye works best, but filet mignon or New York strip are great alternatives.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the steak and prepare the Alfredo sauce in advance, then reheat before serving.

How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild seasoning blend.

Can I substitute Parmesan cheese?

Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese are good substitutes.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Use coconut cream and a dairy-free cheese alternative for the sauce.

How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

Add a little pasta water or milk if the sauce thickens too much.

Can I cook the steak in the oven?

Yes, sear it first, then finish cooking in a 400°F oven for a few minutes.

What side dishes pair well with this?

Garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad complement this dish perfectly.

Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and provides a smoother sauce, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch.

Conclusion

Cajun Steak Alfredo is the perfect blend of spice and creaminess, making it an unforgettable dish for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this rich and flavorful meal is sure to be a hit!

Cajun Steak Alfredo

Author: Chef Clara
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A restaurant-quality dish that combines tender, Cajun-seasoned steak with creamy Parmesan Alfredo sauce over pasta—perfect for a special dinner at home.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb sirloin or ribeye steak
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
2 tbsp unsalted butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp smoked paprika
12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Prepare the Steak
- Season the steak with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
- Remove from the skillet and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing thinly against the grain.
Cook the Pasta
- While the steak rests, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet used for the steak, reduce heat to medium and add butter.
- Once melted, sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the remaining 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
- Gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Season with additional salt and black pepper to taste.
Combine Pasta and Sauce
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
Serve
- Plate the pasta and top with sliced steak.
- Garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve immediately.

Notes

Substitute chicken or shrimp for steak for a different twist.
Add red pepper flakes for extra spice.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American, Cajun